Grower vs Layer for 17wk old started pullets????

[TcherDawn]

I am getting my first chickens ever next week. So excited, slightly obsessed.

Five 17 week old started brown hyline pullets. I am going to the feed store for the first time on Monday to buy feed. What should I buy? I will only have 5 chickens. I am pretty sure that I am supposed to do grower until they lay their first egg. What size does feed come in? Is it only 50lbs.? How long will 50lbs. last 5 chickens? Can I just do Layer even though though they aren't laying yet? Will that harm them? I just want to do what is best for them. I have already named them: Penny, Patty, Polly, Priscilla, and Petunia. Any advice will be helpful. Thanks! Dawn

 

[azelgin]

Keep them on grower, until they actually give you eggs. You can use up the grower, even if they are laying, by giving them oyster shell on the side. The "average" chicken eats 1/4 pound per day. you'll have to do the math, I'm too tired right now.

Edited, cause I'm sleepy and don't spell so good rihgt now.

 

[CovenantCreek]

When I got my started pullets, I went ahead and started them on layer. I think everything I'd read said to start them on layer at 18 weeks or their first egg. I wasn't gonna buy a 50# bag of grower just for a week. I've learned a lot since then, and will keep this year's pullets on the grower ration till they start laying -- unless I run out at some point after they're all past 18 weeks.

 

[TcherDawn]

Thanks. I will do the grower, and start the calcium when I see the first egg. And Azelgin- here's a cup of Green Mountain coffee, just for you!

 

[OSUman]

You can also buy a 20lb bag of grower
i got one from tsc just to hold you over